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Colbert LawColbert Law
Colbert LawColbert Law
  • Home
  • About us
  • Capabilities
    • Condo, Coop, HOA Counsel
    • Litigation
    • Business Law
    • Technology
    • Real Estate
    • Employment Law
    • Tax Audits
    • Family Law
  • Insights
  • References
  • FAQ
  • Inquiry
    • Payment
AGGRESSIVE SKILLFUL EFFICIENT COUNSEL

“Above excellent” is our standard. We are “winners”. We stand apart from the rest, priding ourselves on our responsiveness and impeccable client service.

OUR CLIENTS LOVE US
  • Colbert Law has been representing our condo and coop boards for many years.  Joe Colbert is a terrific General Counsel, always there when you need him and always willing to go above and beyond for clients.  Joe makes managing a lot easier.  He is as aggressive as necessary in litigating or negotiating.  Whether it is a complex sponsor defect matter, a board governance issue or a routine collection matter, Colbert Law works relentlessly to achieve the client’s goals in a cost-effective way.  I highly recommend Colbert Law as counsel.

    Andrew Posner, Senior Vice President/Director of Client Services, Maxwell-Kates, Inc.
  • Colbert Law has been representing our condominium as General Counsel for years. They also serve as our litigation counsel and have been appointed by our insurance company as defense counsel to defend us.  They are aggressive litigators when necessary and also skilled strategists and negotiators.  Joe Colbert is a pleasure to work with and is extremely responsive.  He is always there when we need him.  Whether it is giving general legal advice, working on a contract or litigating, Joe is relentless and thorough in a cost effective way.  I recommend Colbert Law wholeheartedly.  They are above-excellent.

    Peter Urbach, President, Arcadia Gardens Condominium II
  • Colbert Law is our go-to law firm for our association boards.  Joe Colbert and I have been working together for some time and he is terrific. Joe is great with our condo and homeowners’ association boards.  He is an aggressive litigator and creative negotiator when necessary and helps achieve our boards’ goals in an efficient way. I highly recommend Colbert Law as general, corporate and litigation counsel.

    Kevin Swetsky, Owner, EWC Property Management
  • I have been working with Joe Colbert and Colbert Law for some time now.  Joe is wonderful to work with.  He is very responsive and always available when needed.  He is an extremely knowledgable in community association law.  If a matter requires negotiating, Joe is skillful and creative in doing so.  If litigation is required, Joe is skillful and aggressive in trying to achieve our goals. I highly recommend Colbert Law a general, corporate and litigation counsel.

    Cheryl Griffen, President, Port Regalle Condominium I
  • Joe Colbert of Colbert Law represented me in a dispute with my former employer.  He was very effective in negotiating an agreement that ended the matter in a way that achieved our family goals. Joe was readily available for us and aggressively and creatively advocated on our behalf and protected our interests.  If you have an employment dispute, you should contact Joe.

    Catherine S., Individual Client
  • Joe Colbert and I have been working together for many years. Joe is great with condo, coop and HOA boards and he is an expert in community association law. He is an aggressive litigator and skilled, persuasive negotiator.  He works hard to get clients what they want or need in an efficient and cost-effective way.  I highly recommend Colbert Law as general, corporate and litigation counsel.

    Dawn Dickstein, President and Founder, MD2 Property Group, LLC
  • Colbert Law represented me in a dispute involving my Connecticut cooperative.  Joe Colbert personally handled my matter and was always there when I needed him, whether by email, phone or in person.  He created an efficient strategy to achieve my goal, executed on the strategy and won.  I tried to go at it alone for a long time and with the help of Colbert Law, my matter was resolved creatively and to my satisfaction.  I recommend Colbert Law for your legal needs.  They help you in a thoughtful and persistent way.

    Andrea Anthony, Connecticut Cooperative Shareholder
  • Colbert Law has been representing many of our associations for years. Joe Colbert is great with our condo and HOA boards.  He is extremely knowledgable in community association law and readily available to help. He is an aggressive litigator and skilled, persuasive negotiator.  He works hard to get clients what they want or need, in an efficient and cost-effective way.  I highly recommend Colbert Law as general and litigation counsel.

    Ana Papotta, Owner, Colby Property Management
Joseph Colbert

Joseph Colbert

Managing Attorney

Joseph Colbert brings over 30 years of proven success in New York and Connecticut real estate law, providing strategic counsel to cooperatives, condominiums, HOAs, and individuals. Clients trust him for his deep expertise in resolving complex transactions, disputes, and navigating the unique challenges of shared ownership properties. He is an accomplished General Counsel to community association and business boards, and also litigation and trial counsel. His track record speaks for itself: Joe is consistently recognized as a top attorney in both New York and Connecticut. With honors degrees from NYU Stern School of Business and St. John’s University School of Law, he brings both a business and legal acumen to each client matter. Joe taught as an Adjunct Professor of Law at the law school for seven years and also has served as an expert witness in his area of practice, as well as a mediator and arbitrator, demonstrating the respect he holds within the legal community.

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John Sweeney

John Sweeney

Of Counsel

John has had a variety of roles in both big and small companies. He held roles as General Counsel, Chief Financial Officer and Vice president of Tax. He has been the CFO of a public company, a Private Equity Portfolio Company and the division of a large international company. Some companies were the largest in the world, some had only 40 people, and he had a brief stint in government. They include AIG, ING, Aetna, Hanover Insurance, NYS Insurance Department Liquidation Bureau, Longevity Alliance and Grandparents.com. John has a B.S. in Accounting from Arizona State University, a J.D. from Pace Law School, and a L.L.M. (Masters in Law in Taxation) from New York University. He is licensed to practice law in New York, Connecticut, and the District of Columbia. He also has a Green Belt in Lean Six Sigma and formerly held Life and PC insurance licenses.

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Ripal J. Gajjar

Ripal J. Gajjar

Of Counsel

Rip is an experienced litigator whose practice includes representing clients in a diverse range of disputes including those relating to real estate, construction, and commercial/business matters. He is also involved in providing general counseling to the firm’s cooperatives, condominiums and homeowners’ association clients. He also represented businesses with all aspects of commercial transactions, from entity formation, drafting partnership agreements and employment contracts. Rip has helped companies obtain the proper licenses and authorizations to expand into new areas of business and enter new markets. Rip began his legal career as a paralegal and subsequently attended St. John’s University School of Law. He interned at the Department of Enforcement at the Financial Industry Regulatory Authority (FINRA) and was involved in bringing regulatory actions against firms such as Lehman Brothers, UBS and E-Trade. He also interned at the Litigation Bureau of the Office of the Attorney General of New York where he represented several State agencies such as the Department of Banking and the Board of Regents, and defended actions filed against State judges. Rip achieved a B.A. from Queens College of the City University of New York and an M.A. from the University of California, San Diego. In 2011, he received his law degree from St. John’s University School of Law where he was a Member of the New York International Law Review. He is admitted to practice law in New York and New Jersey as well as the federal courts in the Southern and Eastern Districts of New York and the District of New Jersey.

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Sabbir Ahmed

Sabbir Ahmed

Of Counsel

Sabbir is an experienced litigator who handles a wide range of disputes including residential and commercial landlord/tenant disputes, foreclosures and those relating to condominiums, cooperatives and homeowners’ associations, real estate, construction and commercial/business matters. He has litigated numerous types of cases in both Housing Court and New York State Supreme Court and regularly handles cases arising from the failure to pay maintenance and common charges, including common charge lien foreclosure actions and non-judicial U.C.C. foreclosure proceedings. Sabbir also represents residential and commercial buyers and sellers in real estate and loan transactions. He was born in Bangladesh and immigrated to the United States in 1990, residing in Queens for 30 years. A graduate of John Jay College of the City University of New York and Touro University Jacob D. Fuchsberg Law Center, Mr. Ahmed was admitted to practice in the State of New York in 2007.

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Gregory Flood

Gregory Flood

Of Counsel

With over 23 years of experience, bankruptcy attorney Gregory provides expert guidance to individuals and businesses navigating complex financial challenges. A 1999 graduate of New York Law School, Gregory represents clients in Chapter 7, 11, and 13 bankruptcy proceedings, foreclosure actions, credit card defense, and student loan reduction. He also specializes in protecting the interests of community associations when shareholders or owners file for bankruptcy.

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Michael A. Zamat

Michael A. Zamat

Of Counsel

Michael is a persuasive litigator of 24 years backed by dual-state licensure in Connecticut and New York, offering extensive expertise in commercial litigation. His practice spans most areas of commercial disputes, including governance, contract, securities, business, partnership, and employment matters. Michael is deeply committed to representing client interests, diligently working to analyze case merits, minimize risk, and propel positive resolutions to complex legal challenges. He has a proven history of achieving high-value settlements and verdicts, in addition to providing vigilant defense of his clients. Michael successfully prosecuted a large disability lawsuit and obtained a favorable settlement against a worldwide social media network for defamation. Notably, he secured a $12 million settlement for Israeli investors in a dispute related to fraudulent transfers out of a partnership and, as lead trial attorney, obtained a $700,000.00 judgment in a partnership dispute related to high-yield debt funds. He also served as Litigation Counsel for GE Capital Retail Bank, supervising and advising on creditor/debtor litigation and matters related to the Fair Debt Collection Practices Act (FDCPA) and the Fair Credit Reporting Act (FCRA). He is admitted to practice in Connecticut and New York, as well as the U.S. District Courts for the District of Connecticut, the Southern District of New York, and the Eastern District of New York. He earned his Juris Doctorate from St. John’s University School of Law.    

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Thomas Montagnino

Thomas Montagnino

Of Counsel

Thomas is an experienced litigator of over thirty years whose practice focuses on representing clients in a diverse range of disputes, with a particular emphasis on landlord-tenant matters and real estate litigation. He is also actively involved in providing strategic counsel to the firm’s community association clients, including cooperatives, condominiums, and homeowners’ associations, and navigating the complexities of family law as they relate to property and asset distribution. Thomas also represents businesses in all aspects of transactional real estate and commercial contracting. His expertise includes drafting, reviewing, and negotiating complex commercial agreements while identifying process improvements to streamline operations and mitigate risk. An interpersonally effective advocate, Thomas is well respected for his ability to persuasively communicate complex legal concepts to management teams, stakeholders, and senior leadership alike. Throughout his career, Thomas has established himself as a versatile problem-solver with strong analytical and project management skills. He provides guidance on a broad range of policy and regulatory matters, helping clients cultivate key relationships and influence long-term business strategy. Thomas earned his undergraduate degree from Cornell University and received his law degree from Boston University School of Law. Beyond his legal practice, he is an active triathlete who leverages his competitive spirit to raise contributions for socially conscious organizations, including Team in Training for ALS. He has completed numerous endurance events throughout the Tri-State area, including the NYC Marathon and the Montauk, Westchester, Greenwich, and West Point Triathlons. Thomas is admitted to practice law in New York, Connecticut, and Pennsylvania.

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Raegan Fishback

Raegan Fishback

Paralegal

Raegan Fishback is a highly capable Paralegal. She supports the firm’s attorneys, primarily in matters concerning multiple cooperatives, condominiums, and HOA’s. Her responsibilities are extensive, including preparing a variety of critical legal documents such as liens, demand letters, payoff letters, notices, petitions, foreclosure documentation, and money judgment documentation. Raegan is also tasked with researching and reviewing complex governing documents like declarations, bylaws, and proprietary leases. Furthermore, she ensures smooth communication by facilitating correspondence between attorneys and the courts, as well as engaging daily with property managers and homeowners. She is also responsible for managing the firm’s administrative workflow. This involves maintaining the organization of case files and meticulously managing the firm’s calendar to track all critical court dates, due dates, and events. She is proficient in legal documentation preparation and management, electronic filing, time management, and possesses strong organizational and communication skills. Academically, Raegan is a distinguished graduate of Purdue University, where she earned a Bachelor of Arts in Political Science. She also completed minors in Human Rights and Law & Society. Raegan’s academic performance was exceptional, marked by a 3.92/4.00 GPA, earning her Dean’s List and Semester Honors for eight semesters. She also holds the distinction of being a member of Phi Beta Kappa. Prior to her current role, Raegan gained relevant experience as the Mayor’s Legislative Intern for the City of Indianapolis, where she conducted research on short-term rental legalities and a Guaranteed Basic Income Pilot Program.

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Ashley Delance

Ashley Delance

Paralegal

Ashley Delance is a Paralegal where she plays a critical role in supporting the firm’s attorneys and ensuring the smooth operation of complex legal matters. Known for her exceptional organizational skills and meticulous attention to detail, Ashley is instrumental in managing case files from inception through resolution. Her responsibilities include conducting comprehensive legal research, drafting and preparing various pleadings and motions, organizing discovery, and coordinating with clients, witnesses, and opposing counsel. Ashley obtained a Legal Assistant/Paralegal Certification at Sacred Heart University which she is pursuing a Bachelor of Applied Science, Criminal Justice and Corrections.

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Alexandra Gillespie

Alexandra Gillespie

Paralegal

Alexandra is a paralegal who handles all active aspects of case management with experience drafting and e-filing pleadings, preparing discovery requests, and assembling comprehensive exhibits. She is a graduate of Richmond University, where she earned her Bachelor of Arts degree in PPEL (Philosophy, Politics, Economics and Law). Professionally tech-focused, she is proficient in utilizing legal research applications and artificial intelligence.

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Contact Us

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OFFICES

  • Manhattan Office
  • 315 Madison Avenue, Suite 4032, New York, New York 10017
  • 646.880.3000
  • 646.880.3048
  • Westchester Office
  • 44 South Broadway, 21st Floor, White Plains, New York 10601
  • 646.880.3000
  • 646.880.3048
  • Connecticut Office
  • 55 Post Road W, 2nd Floor, Westport, Connecticut 06880
  • 203.349.8100
  • 646.880.3048

Latest Publications

  • When Contractors Lack Licenses: Key Lessons for Condos, Co-ops, and HOAs July 25, 2026
  • When Bankruptcy Won’t Stop Your Foreclosure Sale: What Condo Boards and Management Need to Know About Repeat Filers July 22, 2026
  • When Repetitive Filings Cross the Line: Lessons from Fulton v. Yameogo July 21, 2026
  • Condominium Boards: Why Being Aware of First Mortgage “Standing” Can Protect Your Community’s Bottom Line July 13, 2026

© 2026 Colbert Law LLC Attorney Advertising. Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome.

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Manhattan Office

  • 315 Madison Avenue, Suite 4032, New York, New York 10017
  • 646.880.3000
  • 646.880.3048

Westchester Office

  • 44 South Broadway, 21st Floor, White Plains, New York 10601
  • 646.880.3000
  • 646.880.3048

Connecticut Office

  • 55 Post Road W, 2nd Floor, Westport, Connecticut 06880
  • 203.349.8100
  • 646.880.3048

OUR EXPERTISE

When Contractors Lack Licenses: Key Lessons for Condos, Co-ops, and HOAs

July 25, 2026

A recent NYC Civil Court decision (Fortes v. Decorating and...

When Bankruptcy Won’t Stop Your Foreclosure Sale: What Condo Boards and Management Need to Know About Repeat Filers

July 22, 2026

For condominium boards foreclosing on unpaid common charges,...

When Repetitive Filings Cross the Line: Lessons from Fulton v. Yameogo

July 21, 2026

Community association boards—whether governing condos,...

Condominium Boards: Why Being Aware of First Mortgage “Standing” Can Protect Your Community’s Bottom Line

July 13, 2026

When a condominium unit owner defaults on their monthly...

Winning the Common Charge Battle: How Condo Boards Prevail Against Defiant Unit Owners

July 2, 2026

Condominium boards and property managers face a unique,...

When the Neighbor Builds: What Condo and Co-Op Boards Need to Know

June 29, 2026

Construction in New York City is a fact of life, but when a...

Succession Rights in Limited-Equity Co-ops: Practical Lessons from Mutual Redevelopment Houses v. Manyevitch

June 12, 2026

Succession disputes are among the most sensitive and...

The Post-Settlement Trap: What Fiondella Teaches Co-op Boards About Stipulations and Continuing Habitability Claims

June 9, 2026

For New York cooperative boards and managing agents,...

The Derivative Action Threat: Why “Limited Common Elements” Present Litigation Risks for Condominium Boards and Managers

May 16, 2026

A recent decision by the Appellate Division, First...

Governance and Rule-Making in the Modern Condominium

April 27, 2026

Reflections on 10MSW17D LLC v. Bd. of Managers of 10...

Don’t Delay: Why Timely Enforcement of Common Charges is Critical for Condo Boards

April 15, 2026

A recent decision from the Supreme Court of New York,...

RPAPL § 881 Licenses, and Why Fee Reimbursement Is a Core Deal Term

April 13, 2026

Boards and managers of condominiums, cooperatives, and...

The 432 Park Decision: A Masterclass in Risk Management for New York Condo Boards

April 2, 2026

New York condominium boards and management companies operate...

Protecting Your Building’s Integrity: Lessons from Board of Mgrs. of the 80th at Madison Condominium v. 1055 Madison Ave. Owners LLC

March 31, 2026

As a condominium board member or property manager, your...

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